"If you should be able, in connection with the approaching
representation of the _Rheingold_, to bring before the public the
history of that theatre project, which the Master told you about, I do
not believe that I can be mistaken in saying that you would give him a
real and profound satisfaction; for the truth about those events has
been so completely disfigured by envy, incapacity, and spite as to be
hardly recognisable."
"You may be very sure that I will gladly do what I can."
"It is just because I am sure of your devotion to this noble cause
that I make my petition to you."
"But I know nothing about the project. Adhere can I get the information
necessary in order not to be misleading?"
"Of course I will tell you all about it, as briefly and dearly as I
can. Come upstairs with me to my dressing-room; there you can take
notes."
This _boudoir_, on the first floor, was a little room, with wall
coverings and draperies of green silk, and situated in a corner of
the house. It overlooked the garden and, through the trees, one could
see the blue of the lake and the violet shadows of the mountains.
I had already passed many hours in this room, Madam Cosima having
had the kindness to read to me there the Hindoo history of Nal and
Damayanti, translating it from the German. I was searching just then
for biographies of illustrious lovers of all countries, having promised
to contribute a series of portraitures for the publication contemplated
by the Editor Lecroix, and entitled "Les Grandes Amoureuses." Jean
Richepin, Zola, and others collaborated in this work, which, for some
reason, was never completed. A few portraitures only appeared in print,
but not in the order of succession, and the greater number of the
manuscripts were scattered.
I installed myself in my accustomed place on a little divan fitted
into the corner. Madam Cosima seated herself in front of me, her elbows
resting on the table. She was charming so, in the full light, and with
her crown of heavy blond hair. Her soft blue eyes shone with a tender
light; a pleased smile half disclosed her pretty teeth. We were both
delighted at the idea of planning something which might give pleasure
to the Master!